“We haven’t formed a position on sentencing yet,” Crown attorney Darcy MacPherson told reporters outside the courtroom. “We haven’t done the research that will be necessary to do that, but I can tell you that it will be a substantial custodial period that we’ll be seeking.”

When asked about the impact of this verdict on Howe’s career, his lawyer Mike Taylor said it was “destroyed” but added that Howe’s license to practice law has not been suspended yet.

“Mr. Howe is still, at this point, a practicing lawyer and if his clients wish him to continue, at this point, there’s nothing to stop him from doing that.”

Taylor also said there is a reasonable chance his client will appeal the decision.